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- Tasks: Protect Scotland's red squirrels by managing grey squirrel populations in beautiful outdoor settings.
- Company: Join a passionate team dedicated to wildlife conservation and community engagement.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to equal opportunities and environmental sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in conservation while working outdoors and connecting with nature.
- Qualifications: Experience in mammal control or related fields; strong communication skills are a must.
The Grey Squirrel Control Officer will contribute to a programme of targeted grey squirrel control to protect key populations of Scotland’s red squirrels, in accordance with the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels plan to protect red squirrels in priority landscapes in South West Scotland. This role requires an individual with experience in mammal control work that enjoys working outdoors, who is approachable and enjoys interacting with people.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
- Delivering grey squirrel control, including supporting grey squirrel control volunteers and Red Squirrel Networks in the SSRS Priority Areas for Red squirrel Conservation.
- Carrying out targeted and strategic grey squirrel control in agreed areas according to the SSRS project’s Standard Operating Procedures.
- Working collaboratively with other Grey Squirrel Control Officers, area volunteer group(s) and external organisations, including assisting with training new volunteers to take on the roles of monitoring and control activities.
- Providing opportunities for new trainees to work with you on your trap-rounds to ensure they are capable of working to SSRS standards on private or publicly-held land and understand the principles of trapping for grey squirrel management.
- Where required, carrying out monitoring to assess squirrel presence e.g. feederbox camera traps.
- Working with the Lead Control Officer to deliver training sessions, where required, to new SSRS staff, volunteers and/or land managers in all aspects of best practice grey squirrel control, Rapid Response Monitoring and Squirrel Pox Sampling techniques.
- Assisting the SSRS Lead Control Officer and SSRS Communications Officer, as needed, in responding to enquiries from the public regarding grey squirrel control for red squirrel conservation.
The successful candidate will:
- Possess an SVQ/NVQ level 2 or equivalent in Game and Wildlife Management or related discipline or relevant experience of game keeping, invasive/non-native mammal control or pest control.
- Have a good understanding of conservation principles, practices and legislation.
- Be able to keep and maintain accurate records in Word and Excel.
- Have relevant previous experience, together with experience working with landowners, gamekeepers, foresters and the public.
- Have knowledge of forest and native tree species and familiarity with the Dumfries area.
- Possess a full clean driving licence.
There may occasionally be a requirement to work out of normal working hours.
The Trust is a passionate employer, proactive about creating a culture of diversity and inclusive workplace that promotes and values equal opportunities for all. We welcome individuals from all networks of life, backgrounds, and experiences.
Grey Squirrel Control Officer in Dalbeattie employer: Scottish Wildlife Trust
Contact Detail:
Scottish Wildlife Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Grey Squirrel Control Officer in Dalbeattie
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the local area! Familiarise yourself with Dumfries and the surrounding regions. Understanding the landscape will not only help you in your role but also impress during interviews when you can discuss specific areas of interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with other Grey Squirrel Control Officers and volunteers. Attend local conservation events or workshops to meet people in the field. This can lead to valuable insights and potential job leads.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have experience in mammal control or conservation, be ready to share specific examples during interviews. Highlight any training you've provided or projects you've led to demonstrate your leadership abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and passionate about protecting Scotland's red squirrels.
We think you need these skills to ace Grey Squirrel Control Officer in Dalbeattie
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in mammal control and conservation. We want to see how your skills align with the role of Grey Squirrel Control Officer, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant background!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for wildlife conservation shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely passionate about protecting red squirrels and managing grey squirrel populations. Share any personal experiences or projects that demonstrate your commitment.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to read and understand. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Wildlife Trust
✨Know Your Squirrels
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of grey and red squirrels, their behaviours, and the conservation efforts in place. Being able to discuss the Saving Scotland’s Red Squirrels plan and how your role fits into it will show your passion and commitment.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to talk about your previous experience in mammal control or related fields. Be ready with specific examples of how you've successfully managed invasive species or worked with volunteers, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Engage with the Community
Since this role involves working with volunteers and the public, think of ways you can highlight your interpersonal skills. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated or trained others in past roles to show you're approachable and a team player.
✨Be Ready for Practical Questions
Expect questions that may require you to think on your feet, such as how you would handle a specific situation in the field. Practising these scenarios beforehand can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.